Essential Tips to Stop Pipe Corrosion

Even though you probably don’t think about it often, your home’s piping system is more complicated than you may think. While it is called one system, it’s actually a combination of drain pipes, water supply pipes, vent pipes, and even smaller components.

With all of the many pipes that make up the single piping system, pipe corrosion can be a major issue. You might be wondering if there is anything that you can do to stop corroded pipes. We’re here today to walk you through what you can do to help control a potentially expensive home plumbing situation.

What Is Pipe Corrosion and How Does It Happen?

Pipe corrosion, essentially, is where the pipes in your plumbing system start getting eaten away. This can cause a domino effect of problems in your home, from small mold issues to larger, flooding issues.

To stop corroded pipes, make sure to pay attention to the causes of corrosion. Some of the largest factors that lead to this potentially disastrous issue are low pH values and/or high oxygen content in your water supply, a hotter water temperature, and the chemical makeup of the water in this part of Utah.

How to Keep Your Pipes Clean

Right now you’re probably wondering, is there anything I can do to stop corroded pipes? Many of the factors that added to corrosion seem like they would be totally out of your control.

However, the best defense to stop corroded pipes is a good offense. One of the best ways to stop corrosion is to follow a few simple steps to removing calcium deposits from your own pipes.Start by removing any drains from the sinks, then pour an entire gallon of white vinegar into the pipes.

Wait for 30 minutes, then stick a brush with a long handle as far down into the pipes as you can reach and scrub! While you can do this repeatedly, it’s a good idea to follow this up by installing a water filter. And for those tough deposits that won’t come out with DIY cleaning, it’s best to work with a plumber. An experienced contractor will be able to find you a long-term fix that’s safe on your plumbing as well.

Is Repiping The Better Option?

While repiping can be a great way to stop corroded pipes, often following the above steps can head it off before it really becomes a larger problem. However, in severe situations, repiping may be your only option.

But what is repiping?

Essentially, repiping is removing all of the existing pipes in your plumbing system and replacing them with newer pipes. Often this means switching old copper pipes for the newer PEX variety, but each individual home is different and will require different things.

A certified plumber from Valley Plumbing and Drain Cleaning can help you make the best decision. If you think your pipes may be experiencing some corrosion or if you just want to have your home evaluated to stop corroded pipes before they start, contact us at (801) 341-4222. We would love to come out and help you keep larger, more expensive, problems from rearing their ugly heads.